Tuition

Think again. St. Luke's Episcopal School proudly offers Variable Tuition. Tuition at SLES is not “one-size-fits all.” Tuition is set in a range that spans from 40-80% of the full cost. Variable Tuition adjusts the fixed rate to meet your family’s unique financial position. No family at SLES pays the full cost of education. Variable Tuition awards can place a St. Luke's education within your reach.

What is Variable Tuition?
Variable Tuition is a need-based financial assistance program similar to those used by many independent schools, colleges, and universities. This program allows families to apply for reduced tuition that is right for their family’s financial situation. 

Are some families awarded "full tuition"?
No. All families at SLES are required to make a financial investment in their child’s education. Our commitment to providing Variable Tuition means that we are sharing in that investment with you. 

What Percent of SLES Students Currently Receive Assistance?
Under our existing program, 28% of our current students are receiving financial assistance. Though award amounts vary, the average is around 24% of the tuition cost. 

How does Variable Tuition work?
Any parents (current or new) of a K-8 student may apply for Variable Tuition. Many factors are considered when determining the Variable Tuition award, including income, assets, unusual expenses, and the size of the family. 

The school cannot estimate the Variable Tuition award without the completion of a FACTS Grant and Aid application. Applications are submitted directly to FACTS, a third-party financial review agency. FACTS evaluates the application based on criteria set by the school and makes a recommendation to the school’s Variable Tuition Committee. The Committee notifies an applying family about their Variable Tuition award. 

Unfortunately, the school is not always able to meet the full demonstrated need of all deserving students. SLES works within its available resources to make the school accessible to as many families as possible.

What is the cost to apply for Variable Tuition?
The cost to apply for Variable Tuition is $35 per family. This fee is paid directly to FACTS when the online application is submitted. 

When is the FACTS application available to complete?
FACTS is available starting in December prior to the upcoming school year. 

What is the deadline to apply?
The deadline to submit Variable Tuition application will coincide with the student's Contract Due Date. 

How do I apply for Variable Tuition? 
Parents submit their financial information directly to FACTS. Click here to access St. Luke's FACTS portal. Applications for admission and for Variable Tuition are two separate processes. Admission to St. Luke’s is need-blind and does not guarantee receipt of a Variable Tuition award. FACTS will notify St. Luke’s when your application for Variable Tuition is submitted and completed.

What documentation does FACTS require?

• Copies of your 2018 or 2019 IRS Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ 
• Copies of all 2019 W-2 Wage and Tax Statements
• A non-refundable application fee of $35 paid directly to FACTS online. (Only one application to FACTS is required per family per year)

Is there an income limit to qualify for Variable Tuition?
There is no set income level to qualify for Variable Tuition. Each family’s situation is unique and will be carefully evaluated.

If I am divorced or separated, do both parents need to supply documentation to FACTS?
Yes, both parents (custodial and non-custodial) are required to complete the application process with FACTS for tuition assistance.

How will a situation involving divorce and/or stepparents affect Variable Tuition?
St. Luke’s expects both the custodial and non-custodial parent to participate in the support of their child attending St. Luke’s. Both the custodial and non-custodial parent will be expected to provide their information on the financial assistance application.

If my spouse does not work, will FACTS assign potential income to our application?
For purposes of calculating Variable Tuition, an income of $10,000 will be attributed to any non-working parent without a child under age five.

Do I need to apply for Variable Tuition each year?
Yes. Variable Tuition is awarded annually. A family’s financial circumstances can fluctuate from year to year, as can the overall financial aid resources of the school. The Variable Tuition Committee’s decision to make an award one year does not set a binding precedent for Variable Tuition awards in future years.

When will I know how much Variable Tuition I will be awarded?
Typically, an award notice will be made 4 – 6 weeks after completing the application with FACTS. All financial obligations to SLES must be current. Access to Variable Tuition applications is kept restricted and confidential. We ask that families receiving Variable Tuition award hold these details in strict confidence. Breach of confidentiality may result in forfeiture of a Variable Tuition award.

What if the Variable Tuition award is not sufficient for our needs?
Once an award has been made, any parents who feel that their circumstances are exceptional and warrant further consideration should submit a written appeal to the Variable Tuition Committee by the deadline date indicated on the award letter.

If I do not qualify for the program this year, can I apply again next year?
Yes. A family that does not qualify is welcome to reapply the following year.